Ceasefire takes effect as Israeli forces withdraw from parts of Gaza
Israel announced that its 72-hour ceasefire plan with Hamas is in effect as troops begin redeploying to new lines inside Gaza. The development marks a pivotal moment in a conflict that has wrought heavy casualties and widespread destruction. The Israeli military stressed it remains ready to return to combat if Hamas solidifies control of Gaza or if negotiations fail to implement the plan’s transitional governance framework.
What the ceasefire entails
The 20-point plan, brokered with international mediation, calls for a transitional government to administer Gaza while the Palestinian Authority implements reforms and assumes full responsibility for the territory. If Hamas is able to maintain influence under the deal, Israel says it is prepared to respond, ensuring Hamas cannot reestablish governing power in Gaza.
An essential element of the agreement is a coordinated humanitarian effort. A U.S.-led coalition and regional partners plan to facilitate the delivery of aid into Gaza, which the United Nations has described as facing a “man-made” famine in parts of the enclave. The arrangement foresees the involvement of multiple countries in humanitarian operations and a mechanism to accelerate aid on a humanitarian corridor basis.
Hostage releases and prisoner exchanges
Under the ceasefire terms, a three-day window begins for the transfer of hostages held by Hamas and the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in Israel. Israel says the first phase will unfold within this period with the expectation that all hostages will be accounted for as negotiations proceed. Israeli officials have reiterated that not all remains of deceased hostages may be recoverable, highlighting the difficult job ahead for a joint task force that includes representatives from Israel, the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey.
International reactions and US role
U.S. mediators have framed the ceasefire as a step toward longer-term peace, acknowledging that rebuilding Gaza will require years rather than weeks. Sabrina Singh, a former deputy Pentagon spokesperson, indicated that U.S. support would center on humanitarian coordination rather than an on-the-ground presence inside Gaza. She highlighted a nearby but non-operational U.S. role designed to facilitate aid distribution and transport into the Strip.
President Donald Trump publicly supported the plan, with aides and advisers noting his role in galvanizing international backing. Trump’s aides have argued that the plan’s success hinges on sustained cooperation from regional actors and the ability to maintain humanitarian relief amid ongoing insecurity.
Humanitarian and civilian outlook
Palestinians in Gaza have begun moving toward northern areas after Israeli withdrawal from parts of the south. Local observers warn that the road ahead remains perilous, with continued risk from clashes, explosions, and the disruption of basic services. UNICEF warns that ensuring access to medicines, food, water and sanitation will be critical to preventing a deepening crisis as aid channels adapt to new security constraints.
Religious and community leaders have urged caution and emphasized the urgency of long-term reconstruction. Cardnial Pierbattista Pizzaballa, echoed by humanitarian officials, underscored the moral imperative to protect civilians and to restart essential services such as water and healthcare. Pale hopes persist among displaced residents who express a cautious optimism about returning home, even as many homes lie in ruins.
Outlook
While the ceasefire provides a temporary pause in fighting, both sides acknowledge that a sustainable peace will require enduring political solutions, robust humanitarian access, and confidence-building measures. Analysts warn the path forward is complex and will demand ongoing international attention. As negotiations proceed, the world watches whether the ceasefire can deliver relief to civilians and lay the groundwork for a durable resolution to the Gaza crisis.
